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Boston Health Officials Tell Some Students To Take Antibiotics To Prevent Meningitis

Boston health officials are telling some students and faculty at Boston Latin Academy to go on antibiotics, after possible exposure to bacterial meningitis.

Boston Public Schools Spokesman Matt Wilder says school and health officials have tracked people who were in close contact with a seventh-grade girl believed to have the dangerous illness.

"We identified fewer than, say, 50 students who fit that description, and out of an abundance of caution, will advise that they go see their primary medical provider, to receive an antibiotic."

Wilder says there's a low risk of anyone else catching the illness, but students and staff who had close contact with the girl should see a doctor right away for preemptive treatment.

"If a student or a faculty member does come down with headaches or becomes nauseous, or has sensitivity to light, stiff neck, any of those typical symptoms, we would advise that they see their doctor right away."

The girl remains in critical condition after being hospitalized over the weekend with a probable case of bacterial meningitis.

This program aired on November 21, 2011. The audio for this program is not available.

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